Bill Cork Will Lead Texas Economic Development Council

The veteran leader will take over the Texas business organization beginning on November 1, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a steel transmission tower on a prairie, symbolizing structural growth for Texas economic development. — The Texas Economic Development Council has appointed Bill Cork as its new president and CEO, beginning November 1, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Texas Economic Development Council has selected Bill Cork to serve as its next president and CEO effective November 1, 2026. He will succeed long-term leader Carlton Schwab, who headed the organization since 1999.

Why it matters

The transition marks a significant change for a group that represents over 630 economic development organizations across the state. The council relies on its leadership to support more than 1,000 individual members as they coordinate business growth efforts.

The Texas Economic Development Council currently represents more than 630 economic development organizations and over 1,000 individual members. Outgoing leader Carlton Schwab served for 28 years, while incoming CEO Bill Cork previously attracted $80 billion in capital investment at the Mississippi Development Authority.

The players

Bill Cork

He is the incoming president and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Council who previously led the Mississippi Development Authority for nearly three years.

Carlton Schwab

He is the outgoing leader of the Texas Economic Development Council who served in the role since 1999.

Texas Economic Development Council

This is an organization that represents more than 630 economic development entities and over 1,000 individual members across Texas.

The details

The board of directors for the council unanimously approved the selection of Cork following a national search process. Cork brings experience from previous roles as CEO of the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission and TexAmericas Center in Bowie County, Texas.

Carlton Schwab began his tenure as TEDC leader in 1999.
Bill Cork announced his retirement from the Mississippi Development Authority on September 30, 2026.
The TEDC announced the hiring of Bill Cork on October 13, 2026.
Bill Cork begins his tenure as TEDC president and CEO on November 1, 2026.

Market Landscape

The transition follows the 28-year tenure of Carlton Schwab, which stands as an outlier compared to the typical duration of executive leadership in state-level economic organizations. This shift positions the council to adapt its strategies under new leadership after nearly three decades of consistent guidance.

For members of the council and affiliated economic groups, this leadership change may lead to adjustments in how state-level development initiatives are coordinated. Business owners and local stakeholders can expect a shift in priorities as the new CEO takes office and reviews the organization's current programs.

The takeaway

This leadership transition highlights the significant impact a single executive can have on an organization over several decades. Members of development groups should prepare for potential policy shifts as the new president begins implementing his agenda.